Although community service is an integral part of every Academic Treks adventure, we offer several programs with a stronger emphasis on service. Each trip features between 20-55 hours of service work which complements the program’s academic and cultural focus. Hold a hand and change a young life in the Windward Islands, assist with sustainable agriculture projects in the Amazon or Andes, put your new first responder medical skills to use in a Belize health clinic, or help sustain wildlife populations in Panama or Africa. Truly unique and spectacular destinations and the backdrop for our unparalleled service adventures.
In addition to making a real contribution to the communities we visit, volunteering provides rich opportunities for learning, personal growth, leadership development and cultural understanding. Our students consistently tell us that the service work was the most meaningful and rewarding part of their trip, offering them remarkable perspectives on other people and places, as well as their role in the world.
Island Service Expedition – Dominica & Guadeloupe
The "Nature Island of the Caribbean", Dominica boasts an unspoiled beauty that begs to be explored. Join us on a community service adventure to discover its ecological and cultural treasures. Volunteer alongside welcoming islanders and make a real contribution to their communities in need. Then embark on a sailing voyage to explore neighboring islands.
Learn
More Prerequisite: None | Grades: 9–11 | Service Hrs: 55+ | College Credits: 2
Adventure Peru – Peru
Explore the spectacular Peruvian Andes with its remarkable history, friendly people and breathtaking scenery. Trek to Machu Picchu, learn about Incan and colonial traditions, explore cities, villages and archaeological sites, work on your Spanish skills, and embark on service work with Peace Corps volunteers and Quechua Indians.
Learn
More Prerequisite: None | Grades: 9–12 | Service Hrs: 55+ | College Credits: 2
Adventure Brazil – Brazil
From the carnival city of Rio to colonial Salvador to the remote corners of the Amazon rainforest, this adventure will leave you with a lasting impression of Brazil’s ecological treasures and kind people. Learn about sustainable development, study basic Portuguese and do service work alongside the Brazilian people in magnificent wilderness settings.
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MorePrerequisite: None | Grades: 9–12 | Service Hrs: 35+ | College Credits: 3
Wilderness and Traditional Medicine – Belize
This trip is ideal for anyone destined to be pre-med, intrigued by traditional healing methods or interested in learning life saving wilderness medical skills. Become a Wilderness First Responder (WFR), then put your knowledge and skills to use by volunteering in rural villages. Discover Belize's rich traditions, kind people, tropical jungles and mysterious Mayan ruins.
Learn
MorePrerequisite: 16 years of age | Grades: 10–12 | Service Hours: 20+ | College Credits: 3
Primate Studies – Costa Rica & Panama
Travel to the wilds of Costa Rica and Panama to learn about New World monkeys and how to help protect them from extinction. Study primate ecology in lush rainforests and participate in ongoing monkey research on a tropical island. Work alongside local organizations and scientists on animal rehabilitation, reforestation, conservation and education efforts.
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MorePrerequisite: None | Grades: 9–12 | Service Hours: 25+ | College Credits: 3
African Wildlife Conservation – South Africa
This one-of-a-kind expedition takes you to the majestic wilderness of South Africa to study and assist with efforts to conserve, protect and increase threatened African wildlife populations. See lions, zebras, rhinos and elephants in their natural habitats while working, exploring and learning alongside conservationists, researchers and veterinarians.
Learn
MorePrerequisite: None | Grades: 9–11 | Service Hours: 40+ | College Credits: 3
Explore our website to learn more about our community service summer programs for teenagers, and then call us at 888-833-1907 to help decide which trip is best for you. No matter which program you choose, prepare for the best summer ever!
If you're a college student looking for summer study abroad programs, check out Academic Treks College.
